By Tata Mbunwe
Cameroonian comedian Kentsop Orgelle Celine, popularly known as Mami Ton, has died after battling a stroke and other health complications for weeks.
Her family announced her death Thursday, September 4, on her official Facebook page.
The 56-year-old died at the Douala General Hospital, where she had been receiving treatment since suffering a stroke on August 12.
“Mami Ton has left us. You have the flowers, we have the tears, Mama. You did a fight, your children are proud of you, Mama. Thanks to all her fans,” the family wrote in the post.
On Aug. 14, Douala General Hospital Director Prof. Henry Namme Luma announced that her medical expenses were being covered by the state on instructions from the Presidency.
Mami Ton, who hailed from Dschang in the West Region, had been a part of Cameroon’s film industry for nearly 20 years.
She was widely known for her comedic skits that blended acting and humor to entertain her fans.
Her illness drew attention on social media, with many blogs falsely reporting her death before her passing.
Celebrities React
Her death has left a void in Cameroon’s entertainment industry, and tributes have been pouring in from across the country.
Renowned musician Petit Pays expressed sorrow over her death.
“It is with deep sadness and great emotion that I learned of the departure of our dear Mamiton. In this time of sorrow, I want to express my deepest condolences,” he wrote on his Facebook page.
“Mamiton was not only a talented actress, but also a bright soul who touched so many lives, both on stage and in everyday life. Her loss is immense, not only for her biological family, but also for the entire Cameroonian artistic family. We will remember her joy, her dedication to her craft, and the passion with which she lit up every scene she walked. She left us an unforgettable legacy,” Petit Pays added.
Comedian Ulrich Takam also reflected on Mami Ton’s legacy.
“Thank you for everything. Thank you for your fight, thank you for your person. Thank you for bringing us so much. Thank you for everything. Rest in peace, our Mami Ton,” he wrote on Facebook.
Bikutsi singer Lady Ponce also expressed her sorrow over the comedian’s passing. She wrote: “Rest in peace Mami Ton, you will forever be marked in our hearts. Life is nothing,” accompanied by a clip from one of Mami Ton’s comedy skits.
Mami Ton will be remembered for her contributions to Cameroon’s entertainment industry and the joy she brought to her audience.
